NICE issues Lyme disease guideline

In order to help with the earlier diagnosis of Lyme disease, the National Institute for Clinical and Healthcare Excellence (NICE) has issued a new guideline for GPs and specialists.

The Institute has also called for more UK research into Lyme disease, medically referred to as erythema migrans, and the best long-term treatment options.

Saul Faust, Professor of paediatric immunology and infectious diseases at the University of Southampton and chair of the NICE guideline committee, said:

“We want people to be diagnosed early so they get the right treatment as soon as possible.

“This new guideline gives more clarity on how clinicians can spot Lyme disease and provide early treatment. It guides through when to use tests and what antibiotics to prescribe according to symptoms.”